SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has shed light on the much-anticipated Project Kusha, a multi-layered air defense system designed to safeguard the country’s airspace from a wide range of aerial threats. Recent images obtained by idrw.org reveal crucial details about the three interceptor missiles being developed under this project: M1, M2, and M3.
Project Kusha employs a tiered approach to air defense. Each interceptor missile caters to a specific range and target type, ensuring comprehensive protection against enemy aircraft, cruise missiles, and even airborne early warning and control systems (AWACS) and aerial refuelers.
M1 Interceptor Missile: Based on the Akash-NG airframe, the M1 boasts a projected range of 100 km. It leverages a dual-pulse motor for efficient maneuvering and is equipped with an advanced Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) seeker for precise target acquisition.
M2 Interceptor Missile: Utilizing the MR-SAM airframe as its foundation, the M2 extends its reach to 150 km or more. It incorporates a sustained solid booster for enhanced performance and is likely to play a crucial role in eliminating cruise missiles and smaller fighter jets.
M3 Interceptor Missile: The M3, also based on the MR-SAM airframe, packs the most powerful punch. Equipped with a high-thrust, fast-burning booster significantly larger than the M2’s, it boasts a projected range of 250 km against fighter-sized targets and a staggering 350 km against larger Force Multipliers like AWACS and aerial refueling aircraft. This extended range grants the M3 anti-ballistic missile (ABM) capabilities, providing an additional layer of defense against incoming ballistic missile threats.
DRDO’s strategic decision to utilize proven airframes from current-generation missile systems for M1, M2, and M3 offers several advantages. This approach significantly reduces development time and costs associated with the project. Additionally, it allows for a smoother integration of these new interceptor missiles into the existing air defense infrastructure.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has expressed interest in acquiring eight squadrons of the Project Kusha air defense system. This deployment will significantly bolster India’s air defense capabilities. Additionally, the Indian Navy is actively pursuing the development of naval variants of the M2 and M3 missiles to safeguard its frontline warships.
NOTE : Article cannot be reproduced without written permission of idrw.org in any form even for YouTube Videos to avoid Copy right strikes. Websites doing illegal reproductions will get DMCA and Legal Notices.